FUJI GW690II
I’ve wanted a Fuji GW690II for years and I finally found one at a good price but in well used condition, however the lens was perfect with no marks on it, light seals were new and the shutter was in good order. It’s a bulky somewhat difficult camera to use but it has been very rewarding.
Using the Fuji GW690II camera is a unique and immersive experience that harks back to the days of classic medium format photography. Here's a glimpse into the experience of using this camera. The Fuji GW690II has a substantial and well-built feel in the hands. The body is robust, constructed with metal and carries a sense of durability. The manual controls, including the focus ring, aperture dial, and shutter speed settings, provide a tactile and hands-on experience, which makes you feel directly connected to the camera.
Composing shots through the bright and clear rangefinder viewfinder is a joy. The coupled rangefinder aids in precise focusing, and the frame lines help in composing the shot effectively. Achieving focus is a deliberate process that encourages a thoughtful and careful approach to each photograph. As a analog wedding photographer I’ve found achieving focus in a hurry has not been a problem. The viewfinder is clear and focus acquisition isn’t a problem.
Cristina, shot on Kodak Gold 200 at Berwick Lodge wedding venue in Bristol.
Like most film cameras operating the GW690II involves setting everything manually, from focusing to exposure. This manual control forces me to slow down and think about each aspect of the shot. I have more keepers on average shooting on film. It’s so easy to rattle of 1,000s of frames on digital. The GW690 shoots on 120 roll film, shooting 8 shots per roll.
Despite being more portable than some other medium format cameras, the GW690II is still larger and heavier than 35mm counterparts. Carrying it involves a bit more commitment and effort but it’s worth it.
The ultimate reward comes when reviewing the developed negatives. The image quality is often praised for its sharpness, detail, and the unique aesthetic produced by the medium format. The larger negative size contributes to a distinct look that is hard to replicate with smaller formats. Using the GW690II may pose challenges for those accustomed to fully automated digital cameras. Its manual nature demands a learning curve, but I find this to be part of its charm.
